A Realtor^® is Your Best Defense

Listing information, including photos, is gathered from an agent’s or brokerage firm’s Web site and a fake Craigslist ad is created advertising the property for rent – typically at a bargain rental. The ad is accompanied by contact information, which includes an email address and a phone number, which may be the agent’s or the owner’s phone number. Email inquiries receive replies with an elaborate story concerning the “owner’s” necessity of renting very quickly. Of course, the scammer then makes off with the deposit for the “rental.”

Precautions for Sellers

• Check Craigslist and other similar Web sites immediately if you receive inquiries concerning your property for rent when it’s really listed for sale.
• Refer all inquiries concerning your property – whether for lease or sale – to your Realtor^®.

Precautions for Buyers

• Check public records for landlord’s name and verify info against landlord’s picture ID.
• Do not buy or rent property by Mail Order or online only. Enlist the services of an experienced Realtor^®.